relevantly
Meaning
in a way that is closely connected or appropriate to the matter at hand.
Structure
Usage
she answered the question quickly and relevantly.
to contribute relevantly to the discussion, one must first understand the core issue.
the data must be analyzed and presented relevantly to support the main argument.
Etymology
the adverb 'relevantly' is built upon the adjective 'relevant', which originates from the latin verb relevare, meaning 'to lift up' or 'to lighten'. this verb itself is a compound of re- (an intensive prefix) and levare (to lift, from levis, light). the semantic journey from the physical sense of 'lifting' to the abstract sense of 'bearing upon or connecting to a matter' is a classic example of metaphorical extension, where a concept is elevated into consideration. the addition of the old english adverbial suffix -ly then transforms the adjective into a word describing the manner of being pertinent or applicable.
Analysis
- relevant: from latin relevans, present participle of relevare meaning 'to lift up, lighten', from re- (again) + levare (to lift, lighten). in english, it functions as an adjective meaning 'pertinent'. - ly: from old english -līce, an adverbial suffix forming adverbs from adjectives, indicating manner.